BERNE — Garry L. Porter, a lifelong Hilltown resident who worked as a surveyor, married his sweetheart and, with her, raised three children. He died peacefully on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at the Grand of Guilderland. He was 75.

He was born in Westerlo on Aug. 25, 1943 to the late Robert and Esther (née Lee) Porter.

He graduated from Berne-Knox High School in June 1961. He married his sweetheart Donna Murphy Porter on July 11, 1964, and together they raised three children.

Mr. Porter was a member of the Operating Engineers Union for over fifty years and worked as a surveyor. He was a member of Berne Masonic Lodge 684.

“He enjoyed playing Pinochle and Pitch with his family and friends,” his family wrote in a tribute. “He was an avid deer hunter. He enjoyed baseball and was a Braves fan.”

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Garry L. Porter is survived by his children, Stephen Porter and his wife, Pam, Kelly Porter, and John Porter and his wife, Lori; his grandchildren, Ashley and Estelle Porter; his granddaughter-in-law Sarah Bickford; his great-grandchildren, Madison Leffler and Hayleigh Bickford; his brothers, Ronnie Porter, David Porter and his wife, Robin, and Dennis Porter; his Uncle Mace Porter; and several nieces and nephews.

His lovely wife, Donna, died before him, as did his sister, Carol Brate; his sister-in-law Pat Porter; and his grandson Bryant Bickford.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, June 20, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Fredendall Funeral Home at 199 Main Street in Altamont. A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 21, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with interment to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery.

Donations may be made to the Berne Masonic Lodge, care of Lou Shank, 28 Overlook Lane, East Berne, NY 12059.